The bill, S.B. No. 706, amends Section 411.173(b) of the Government Code to recognize valid handgun licenses issued by any other state in Texas. It mandates that the governor negotiate agreements for reciprocal recognition of handgun licenses with other states that require such agreements. Additionally, the bill requires the Texas Department to publish and annually update a list of states where a Texas-issued handgun license is recognized.

Furthermore, the bill repeals Sections 411.173(c) and (d), which previously outlined specific conditions under which licenses from other states would be recognized in Texas, including background check requirements. The changes aim to simplify the process of recognizing out-of-state handgun licenses and enhance the accessibility of information regarding license recognition for Texas residents. The bill will take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote; otherwise, it will become effective on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 411.173 (Government Code 411)